Chief Minister, Dr Pramod Sawant inaugurated the 1st Yuva Tourism Club Meet 2024 organised by Department of Tourism on the occasion of World Tourism Day at Raj Bhavan, Dona Paula.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister launched the Yuva Tourism website along with a handbook- Yuva Tourism. The State-Level Tourism Ambassador Program was also launched.
Minister for Tourism, Rohan Khaunte, Secretary (Tourism), Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS; Director Tourism, Suneel Anchipaka, IAS were also present.
The event brought together more than 1000 students and youth representatives from various educational institutions across the state to explore new tourism opportunities, regenerative practices, and the vital role of youth in shaping the future of tourism in Goa.
“Yuva Clubs will play a crucial role in integrating Goan manpower into the hospitality sector. Collective efforts are essential from the youth of Goa to promote new avenues of tourism, including sustainable, wellness, adventure, and spiritual tourism. We need young ambassadors to advocate for Goa and establish it as a premier destination for responsible and meaningful travel experiences, ultimately aiming to create a lasting legacy for future generations,” stated Dr Sawant.
The Chief Minister further emphasised on growth prospects, saying: “Youth will have numerous job opportunities in the tourism sector in the coming years. The Yuva Tourism Club serves as a valuable platform for school and college students and for the youth entirely, which will provide them avenues for skilling, reskilling, and upskilling to prepare them for the different opportunities available in the tourism sector.”
He also urged students to aspire for greater achievements and to embrace their potential in contributing to the future of tourism in Goa, the Chief Minister said.
Khaunte stressed the vital role of youth in shaping the future of tourism. “The Yuva Tourism Club draws inspiration from the Prime Minister’s vision of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which means the world is one family. This ethos promotes unity and peace through tourism. As India’s tourism landscape evolves, it presents a golden opportunity for everyone to become global ambassadors.”
The Minister further said, “We are delighted that more than a thousand students are part of the Yuva Tourism Club in Goa. The Minister encouraged the young audience to embrace their potential as ambassadors of change, emphasizing that their involvement today will pave the way for a more vibrant and sustainable tourism landscape tomorrow.”
The Tourism Minister also gave a brief account of the activities organised by the Department in celebration of World Tourism Day, highlighting key initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable tourism. Additionally, he engaged the young generation, introducing them to the innovative concepts of tourism, which focus on transforming travel through new approaches such as regenerative tourism, the promotion of Ekadasha Teertha, and showcasing Goa beyond its beaches.
Anchipaka highlighted the initiative’s significance. He noted, “Goa is proud to be India’s first state to implement regenerative tourism, focusing on environmental restoration, community empowerment, and cultural preservation. This model encourages mutual respect between tourists and locals while promoting eco-friendly initiatives. In celebration of World Tourism Day, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has organised the Yuva Tourism Club Meet to honour the contributions of over 150 plus clubs across our state. Aligned with the Prime Minister’s initiative for India@75, these clubs engage our youth in responsible tourism and cultural immersion. In 2023, there were approximately 30 Yuva Tourism Clubs, and by 2024, this number has expanded to over 150 plus clubs throughout Goa. Our commitment to diverse tourism—from hinterland to spiritual experiences—positions Goa as a leader in conscious travel. Through strong partnerships with local schools and colleges, we are empowering our youth to shape Goa’s tourism narrative, ensuring a sustainable future for both our community and visitors.”
Several Yuva Tourism Clubs were recognised for their outstanding contributions during the event. Dnyanprassarak Vidyalaya was honoured as the first school to establish a Yuva Tourism Club, while Goa College of Home Science in Campal, Panaji, was acknowledged as the first college to launch the Yuva Tourism Club in Goa. Bal Bharati Vidyamandir, Ribandar was appreciated for its impressive dance and music performances during the Yuva Tourism Club Meet. Additionally, IITTM and IHM were commended for their various activities related to the YUVA Tourism Clubs.
The event also featured insightful talk on “The Future of Tourism in Goa: Balancing Development and Sustainability,” led by Professor of IITTM, Ravindra Dogra.
